Environmental Benefits of Electric Cars Depend on Where You Live

The environmental benefit an electric car can offer over a hybrid or standard gas-burning vehicle varies depending on where you live, according to a new study from the Union of Concerned Scientists. The researchers found that electric vehicles (EVs) are always a better choice for the environment, regardless of location, but just how much better depends on the greenness of each state’s power grid.

Even in states that still use coal-burning plants, EVs are still better for the environment than traditional gas-fueled vehicles, the report explains. In states with cleaner energy plants, home to about 45% of Americans, they outperform even hybrids. And regardless of state, EVs can save money on fuel costs, from about $750 to $1,200 a year, depending on the price of electricity. It may not be enough to completely offset the higher cost of an electric car, but savings will only increase as the price of gas goes up.